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Who was Nikki Grahame? 'Big Brother' star, 38, dies after 'worst anorexia episode' and lifelong eating disorder

Nikki Grahame was getting specialist treatment after suffering the 'worst anorexia episode she has had', according to her mother

Reality TV star Nikki Grahame, best known for her appearance in the seventh season of 'Big Brother UK', died at the age of 38 on Friday, April 9, following complications from anorexia. The news came as Grahame recently received specialist treatment after suffering the 'worst anorexia episode she has had', according to her mother, Sue. She was reportedly released from a hospital in Devon a day before her death.

“Nikki Grahame passed away in the early hours of Friday 9th April 2021,” said a statement from her representative. “Please respect the privacy of Nikki’s friends and family at this tragic and difficult time.” Grahame opened up about her experience of anorexia in two books, 2009’s 'Dying to Be Thin', and 'Fragile', which was published in 2012. She had struggled with the eating disorder since a young age, revealing that she attempted suicide several times after refusing to accept treatment willingly. 

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Grahame appeared on the seventh season of 'Big Brother UK', which aired on Channel 4 in 2006. She earned popularity for her frequent temper tantrums and relationship with eventual winner, Pete Bennett. The reality star grabbed the fifth position and, in 2010, was selected to appear in 'Ultimate Big Brother', which featured the series’ most famous contestants from its 10-year history. She finished in second place. Her popularity on the show saw her given her own series, titled 'Princess Nikki', which saw her attempt several unlikely jobs, including deep sea fishing and mountain rescuing.

At the age of 16, Grahame started increasing her weight after a six-month stay at Rhodes Farm clinic in Mill Hill, London, but relapsed two years later. She eventually overcame the disorder, but relapsed twice, once in 2011 and again earlier this year. Grahame’s representative stated in March 2021: “It is with sadness that we can confirm Nikki’s battle with anorexia has worsened in recent months and those closest to her are doing everything they can to assist with her recuperation, most notably in the form of a GoFundMe page.” Her GoFundMe page raised £68,974/ $94,553.

Over the years, Grahame was seen in the 'Big Brother' numerous times giving guest appearances. In 2017, she appeared on the show’s final run and said of the Elstree and Borehamwood compound: “There is something about this house where nothing else matters. Big Brother has played such a huge part of my life, it changed my life for the better. I don’t have one regret, not one. It will always have a place in my heart. Thank you Big Brother for everything. Literally, everything.”

As soon as the sad news came to light, wishes started pouring in. One Internet user said, "The passing of Nikki Grahame after her battle with anorexia is heartbreaking. Eating disorders are so misunderstood because we, as a society, have become obsessed with diet culture, editing pictures, and striving for what the media tells us is perfection." While another one said, "Absolutely heartbreaking that Nikki Grahame has died aged 38 after a lifelong battle with anorexia. Eating disorders are extremely misunderstood by the majority of people, and they truly devastate lives. Thinking of Nikki’s loved ones at this time."

One person tweeted: "Absolutely devastated to hear the news about Nikki Grahame’s death. For people my age in 2006, she defined what it meant to be a reality tv personality before reality tv really became what it is now. Endlessly quotable, instantly beloved and a character no one will ever forget." Another one said, "Heartbreaking to hear of Nikki Grahame's sad passing. Anorexia is a cruel disease. Such an incredible personality and a true breakout star of the Big Brother franchise."